Say 'no' to Groupthink

What is groupthink? Wikipedia defines it as:

Groupthink is a type of thought exhibited by group members who try to minimize conflict and reach consensus without critically testing, analyzing, and evaluating ideas.

It's really a serious problem that can lead to serious consequences. Some examples I can think of are:

• Two US space shuttles being lost because the mission couldn't stop.
  
• Various politicians who were blinded and their inner circle didn't (or couldn't) tell them so
  
• Non-profits who seem to get involved in scandals because no paid attention to the person bringing forward critical information
  

What are the signs of groupthink? Here are my top 3:

• You're being told "not to rock the boat"
• Pressure to follow and not question
• Lack of critical thinking
  

So what can you do to avoid groputhink? Some of my ideas are:

• Don't be afraid to disagree, but do be prepared to be tactful and specific about the problem
• All decisions should look for alternatives
• Encourage someone to find "holes" in any decision.

Maybe with less groupthink we can save lives and organizations.